USA- The Wine Group (TWG), an American alcoholic beverage company known for its  Franzia wine brand, has promoted Mike Donich to Chief Operations Officer.

Donich has worked at TWG for the past 18 years, most recently as TWG’s Executive Vice President of Operations. 

He is said to have led the development of many of TWG’s award-winning wines, its successful export business, and countless winery enhancements.

He is also said to have helped the company achieve operational enhancements and played a critical role in the group’s mergers and acquisition exploits.

Donich replaces retiring COO Brott Ritzel, who served the company for 16 years, helping it become one of the most efficient and productive supply chains in the alcoholic beverage space.

“The people are what make TWG so great. Everyone treats each other with respect and shares common values that drive innovation and growth. The passion of every team member shows in all our products,” Donich said.

TWG announced Donich’s appointment alongside that of  Jennifer Evans as Chief Finance Officer (CFO) and Helen Kurtz as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).

Evans brings over two decades of experience in global finance, strategy, and commercial experience in the alcoholic beverage and consumer goods industries

Before joining Constellation Brands, Evans served as CFO for KEEN as well as spent over 11 years at Constellation Brands in various finance leadership positions, including SVP and Global CFO of the Wine & Spirits division.

“I’m inspired by TWG’s culture of stewardship, commitment to values, and focus on building for the long-term,” she noted.

Evans replaces retiring CFO Tim Wiesner who served the company in various finance leadership roles for fourteen years.

Meanwhile, Helen Kurtz, a former senior vice president and general manager at Calavo Growers, has more than 25 years of experience as a transformative marketing leader and brand builder.

Before TWG, Helen served in senior marketing, strategy, and general management roles with major food and CPG companies, including Foster Farms, and General Mills.

 “The Wine Group’s incredible history and integral role in creating America’s taste for wine is an inspiration,” Kurtz said.

“I am reminded daily of the generations that came before to make TWG what it is today and am motivated to continue their legacy.”

Kurtz replaces retiring CMO Jeff Dubiel, who is credited for the creation of many TWG brands, including Chloe, Tribute, and Cupcake LightHearted.

According to Impact Databank, The Wine Group is ranked as the second-largest wine marketer in the U.S. by volume selling about 42 million 9-liter cases last year. Franzia, its top-selling label, accounts for up to 50% of its U.S. volume.

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